The Detroit Lions are hoping to end the 2019 NFL season on a high note over the next two games. Unfortunately, they will have to do it without quarterback Matthew Stafford.

According to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter, the Lions have opted to place Stafford on injured reserve:

Stafford suffered broken bones in his back during the loss to the Oakland Raiders back in early November. Detroit was seemingly hesitant to put him on IR with the hope that he would be able to make his return at some point down the final stretch of the 2019 campaign. Unfortunately, it appears his season is officially over.

Although there is no question that the Lions endured their fair share of struggles this season, Stafford had actually been in the midst of one of the most efficient years of his career. He threw for 2,499 yards, 19 touchdowns, and five interceptions in eight games. He even managed to post a career-high 106 passer rating prior to his injury.

It seems Detroit has finally decided to take a cautious approach with his recovery six weeks later. This should allow Stafford some extra time to make a full recovery during the offseason before organized team activities roll around for the 2020 NFL season.

The Lions will now look to backup quarterback David Blough to finish out the season under center. The rookie is 0-3 in all of his starts thus far while he continues to struggle to find his footing. Regardless, it seems he will have two more games to show some signs of promise.